A Study of Boston Nail Salons

A recent study on the Indoor Air Quality of Boston Nail Salons conducted by Brandeis University students from the Environmental Health and Justice Program revealed that a high percentage of toxic chemicals and fine particles are found in nail salon air. The Students, who worked with the Boston Public Health Commission’s Safe Nail Salon Project, set out to measure the amount of toxins (volatile organic compounds, “VOCs”) and particulate matter which are fine particles from nail filings and dust. The amount of carbon dioxide was measured in order to understand the rate of ventilation in the nail salons. The students found out that most of the nail salons were poorly ventilated and had high levels of toxic chemicals and particulate matter that the workers were exposed to for long hours on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, most beauty products are rarely tested for safety, as the cosmetic industry is inadequately regulated. Nail salon workers are exposed to chemical ingredients found in nail polishes, acrylic nails and nail polish removers such as acetone, formaldehyde and toluene. Reported health effects include headaches, dizziness, asthma and even spontaneous abortions. Most of these workers are immigrant Vietnamese women of reproductive age, making their exposure to harmful chemicals of concern. Currently, there are Congressional hearings for cosmetic safety hearings occurring within the House Energy and Health Commerce Subcommittee that could reinforce the status quo.

A full report is expected in the Spring, 2012. In the meantime, Brandeis students will continue to work with Viet-AID and the Boston Public Health Commission’s Safe Nail Salon Project in partnering with salons to improve air quality, working conditions, and public safety throughout the city.

For more information about the Boston Public Health Commission’s Safe Nail Salon Project, and to download free educational materials and videos, visit www.bphc.org/safenails or call 617-534-5965.

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Located in Boston, the Mayor’s Health Line is a free and confidential, information and referral phone service open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. It is your one-stop-shop for your health insurance and health care needs. The Mayor's Health Line is part of the Boston Public Health Commission. please visit their site at www.bphc.org